As an old-time movie buff with a penchant for delving into the intricacies of cinematic history, I must say that the silver shoes gracing the screens in the latest adaptation of Wicked have left me absolutely smitten!
Couldn’t help but wonder if those iconic ruby slippers from “The Wizard of Oz” are reappearing in the upcoming “Wicked” film? Think twice! In an enchanting transformation, Dorothy’s beloved shoes have been given a stunning makeover, swapping their classic crimson glimmer for a captivating silver shimmer. However, this isn’t just another Hollywood reinterpretation—it’s a faithful recreation of the original concept that sparked the phenomenon.
Upon the initial release of trailer snippets for Wicked, sharp-eyed enthusiasts spotted an unusual change in the famous shoes. This alteration isn’t just cosmetic; it’s a thoughtful decision that underscores the filmmakers’ dedication to preserving literary accuracy and their daring ambition for this prequel of the cherished story we’re all familiar with.
In L. Frank Baum’s 1900 novel “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz”, there were no ruby slippers; instead, according to costume designer Paul Tazewell, they were described as peculiar little silver boots. This seemingly minor detail exposes a century-old discrepancy that emerged when MGM brought the story to the screen in 1939.
In the classic movie, the change from silver to ruby in the famous scene wasn’t just random. Instead, it was Noel Langley, the screenwriter of The Wizard of Oz, who suggested this color switch. His reason? MGM wanted to take full advantage of their innovative use of Technicolor’s three-strip film technology, a game-changer during an era where black-and-white films were dominant. By making the shoes ruby red, they created a striking visual contrast against the yellow brick road, turning those shoes into an iconic image in cinema history.
The creation and legacy of the original ruby slippers represent one of Hollywood’s most fascinating stories. Costume designer Adrian Adolph Greenburg, known professionally as Adrian, initially experimented with different designs. His first attempt featured a curled “Aladdin” toe, but this was ultimately rejected for clashing with Dorothy’s farm girl character.
The ultimate design, those charming satin shoes embellished with bows, needed a few technical tweaks. Originally adorned with hefty bugle beads, they underwent a transformation, using 2,300 sequins instead, to strike the ideal blend of shimmer and comfort.
The specific count of shoe pairs used in the 1939 movie has yet to be uncovered, but it’s known that five genuine pairs still exist today. These historical cinema relics have experienced fascinating odysseys. One pair is housed at the Smithsonian’s American Museum of Natural History in Washington D.C., while another made its way to the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles, with help from famous film personalities like Leonardo DiCaprio and Steven Spielberg. A third pair is being sold at auction after being stolen close to two decades ago.
As a dedicated cinephile, I eagerly anticipate the 2024 adaptation of “Wicked.” Costume designer Paul Tazewell, in this exciting venture, found himself grappling with an engaging dilemma: how to pay homage to the original source while breathing new life for contemporary spectators. His ingenious response? A trailblazing design that seamlessly blended historical influence with cutting-edge modernity.
Tazewell stated to WWD that they had to make an impact in a memorable fashion, similar to the famous ruby slippers. Instead of simply replicating them, he aimed to design something unique and fitting for the universe we were constructing.
Tazewell joined forces with artisan Miodrag Guberinic in producing what they call “The Jeweled Shoes.” This extraordinary collection of footwear showcases a complex, twisting pattern inspired by the spiral form of tornados, recalling the famous whirlwind that carried Dorothy to the magical land of Oz.
Tazewell explained to the outlet that the shoe design he described began like a whirlwind of gems at the heel, rising up and enveloping the foot, before circling around it. These shoes were breathed life into using 3D printing technology, and boasted an impressive 1,165 Preciosa crystals, creating a beautiful fusion of classic artisanship with contemporary production methods.
In the musical “Wicked,” the silver shoes aren’t merely a reference to L. Frank Baum’s original work; they also have strong ties to Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel, “Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West.” Maguire stayed true to Baum’s concept, depicting the shoes as shiny beaded footwear that were given to Nessarose, who eventually transforms into the Wicked Witch of the East.
In the recent advertisements for “Wicked,” I’ve noticed that the iconic Silver Shoes are stealing the show, with characters like Dorothy and Nessarose donning them. It’s an exciting reminder of the magical world they inhabit!
— Jillian (@JillianChili) July 29, 2024
According to Maguire’s account, the silver shoes acquire their enchanted abilities thanks to Glinda’s spell, allowing Nessarose, who is confined to a wheelchair, to walk again. However, in the Broadway adaptation, Elphaba is responsible for bestowing the magical properties upon these shoes. This change in the narrative underscores how these shoes have evolved beyond simple accessories; they now symbolize profound transformation and empowerment.
Dorothy’s well-known footwear, having a dual nature – sometimes red as rubies, other times silver – mirrors the multiple ways Oz has been portrayed in various media platforms. The color change in the play “Wicked” might not be mere whimsy but could link to a significant third-act disclosure, shedding light on the transition from silver to red.
In a contemporary context, silver shoes could appear unexpected for viewers primarily acquainted with the 1939 film version. Yet, this focus on staying true to the original work hints at the adaptation’s dedication to authenticity. Choosing silver once more can be seen as a wider creative strategy that respects the story’s origins while creating something fresh and innovative.
Due to the recent theater release of “Wicked”, viewers can look forward to a contemporary retelling of one of literature’s well-known shoe pairs. The silver shoes will resurface in the upcoming sequel, slated for 2025, hinting at their importance that transcends simple costume design and weaves itself into this new installment of the Oz tale.
Wicked is playing in theaters now.
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2024-11-24 05:40